Issues

Maze conflict resolution centre approved

Maze-2 Planning permission has been granted for a ‘peace building and conflict resolution centre’ near the former site of the Maze prison. The proposed building has been designed by American architect Daniel Libeskind and Belfast-based McAdam Design. It is due to be completed by 2015.

“The centre can contribute to sharing this learning and perhaps to help inform the resolution of conflict in other places,” Environment Minister Alex Attwood stated.

Applications for the development were submitted by the Maze Long Kesh Development Corporation, on 19 November 2012 and 25 January 2013 and the decision was announced on 18 April.

The building will be separate from the former prison. Its construction is supported by Sinn Féin, the SDLP and the Alliance Party but opposed by the UUP and TUV. Neither party, though, formally objected to the planning application.

“Such an emotive venue, close to the H-blocks, near the hospital prison with all their connotations, has led to the feelings this is a shrine to terrorism,” UUP Minister Danny Kennedy said. “It is not a neutral venue and therefore is totally unsuitable.”

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